UI release (edit)
08/11/25
University of Iowa football defensive tackle Aaron Graves was named to the 2025 Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List for the most outstanding defensive player in the nation on Monday.
In addition to being a Bednarik Award candidate, Graves was previously named to the 2025 Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Lott IMPACT Trophy watch lists last month. Graves was also tabbed a 2025 preseason second team All-American by Phil Steele.
Presented annually since 1994, the award is named for University of Pennsylvania linebacker Chuck Bednarik. Preseason honorees are determined by the Maxwell Football Club in collaboration with Pro Football Focus (PFF) and Phil Steele Publications.
Semifinalists for the Bednarik Award will be announced Nov. 11, while the three finalists for the Bednarik Award will be unveiled Nov. 25. The winner of the 31st Bednarik Award will be announced on Dec. 11.
The Hawkeyes kickoff the season against UAlbany on Aug. 30, at Kinnick Stadium beginning at 5 p.m. The sellout game will be televised on FS1.